🧠 Easy Read: Understanding Depression (Student & Parent-Friendly Guide) Quiz questions

 

What is Depression?

• Depression is a mental health condition.

• It causes feelings of sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in things you normally enjoy.

• It lasts weeks or months, not just a few days.

• It can make school, friendships, and daily life harder.

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Signs and Symptoms

A young person with depression may:

• Feel sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time

• Stop enjoying hobbies, friends, or activities

• Have problems sleeping (too much or too little)

• Feel tired or worn out

• Eat too much or too little

• Find it hard to concentrate or make choices

• Feel guilty or worthless

• Talk about wanting to hurt themselves (needs immediate help)

• Pull away from family and friends
  ⚠️ Sometimes it shows as anger or irritability instead of sadness.

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How Depression is Found Out

Doctors, school staff, or mental health professionals may:

• Talk with the child or family

• Use questionnaires or checklists

• Watch behaviour and mood over time

• Give a proper diagnosis and plan support

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Support and Help

• Talking therapy (like CBT or counselling)

• Healthy routines: regular sleep, meals, activity

• Support at school: trusted adult, less workload

• Family support: learning together about depression

• Medication: sometimes prescribed by a doctor

• Crisis support: if a young person talks about self-harm or suicide

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Types of Depression

• Major Depression (MDD): very low mood, loss of interest, and big impact on life.

• Persistent Depression (PDD): long-term low mood (2+ years).

• Seasonal Depression (SAD): happens in winter with less sunlight.

• Postpartum Depression: happens after having a baby.

• Bipolar Disorder: shifts between lows (depression) and highs (mania/hypomania).

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Treatment for Depression

• Talking therapies (CBT, IPT, supportive therapy, mindfulness, psychoeducation)

• Medication (antidepressants like SSRIs, tricyclics)

• Other treatments:

  • Brain stimulation (ECT, rTMS)

  • Light therapy for SAD

  • Healthy lifestyle (exercise, sleep, avoiding drugs/alcohol)

• Support groups: sharing feelings and learning together

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Supporting Someone with Depression

• Listen and show care

• Encourage them to get help

• Be patient – recovery takes time

• Help with small daily tasks

• Share information about services and support

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Reassurance

• Depression is treatable.

• With the right help, young people can feel better and enjoy life again.

• Talking openly and asking for help early makes a big difference.

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📄 Quiz Questions (Easy Read)

1. What is depression?

2. Name two signs or symptoms of depression.

3. True or False: Depression only lasts a few days.

4. Who can help find out if someone has depression?

5. Name one type of support or treatment for depression.

6. What is the difference between major depression and bipolar disorder?

7. Name one type of depression linked to seasons or life events.

8. What should you do if a young person talks about hurting themselves?

9. True or False: Everyone’s depression is the same and needs the same treatment.

10. How can families and friends support someone with depression?